Barrett's Esophagus
About Barrett’s Esophagus
Barrett’s Esophagus is a condition in which the lining at the lower end of the esophagus is damaged by stomach acid. Normally, stomach acid is kept from splashing back up into the esophagus by the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), a muscular valve that opens and closes when you eat or drink. When the valve doesn’t work properly, you experience a reflux of stomach acid, commonly known as heartburn or acid reflux.
When this irritation is severe or occurs frequently over a long period of time, it is referred to as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). GERD, in turn, can cause an abnormal growth of intestinal-type cells, like those found in the stomach, to occur at the lower end of the esophagus. The abnormal growth, or dysplasia, of these cells in the area just above the LES is the distinguishing feature of Barrett’s Esophagus. In rare cases, the abnormal cells can result in cancer of the lower esophagus.
Frequently Asked Questions about Barrett’s Esophagus
Q. What causes Barrett’s Esophagus?
A. It is believed that the abnormal growth of intestinal-type cells in the lower esophagus is a defense mechanism against acid reflux. The cells lining the stomach are protected from contact with acid, so their presence in the esophagus may protect the normal tissue against further damage by GERD. The presence of these cells may also explain why heartburn symptoms improve in some patients with Barrett’s Esophagus.
Q. Who is at risk for Barrett’s Esophagus?
A. The condition occurs in males three times more often than females and appears to be congenital (present at birth). However, current evidence is strong that in most instances, it develops as a result of longstanding GERD.
Q. What are the symptoms?
A. There are none. The accompanying heartburn symptoms are the result of GERD, not of the abnormal cells that characterize Barrett’s esophagus.
Q. Should I be concerned if I get occasional heartburn?
A. No. Everyone experiences mild heartburn from time to time. If the symptoms become severe or keep occurring over a long period of time, however, you should consult your doctor.
Q. If there are no symptoms, how is it diagnosed?
A. If your physician suspects Barrett’s Esophagus, diagnosis requires a procedure called an upper endoscopy (EGD). This is performed while you are under sedation so that the doctor can examine the lining of the esophagus and stomach with a thin, flexible, lighted instrument called an endoscope. He or she will also collect tissue samples (biopsies) to be checked under a microscope for the presence of abnormal cells.
Q. If they find abnormal cells, how are they treated?
A. Currently, there are no medications to reverse Barrett’s Esophagus, but it appears
that treating the underlying GERD may slow the progress of the disease and prevent complications. Your physician may consider medications that reduce stomach acid or one can strengthen the LES.
In some cases, surgery (called fundoplication) is required to strengthen the LES. This is performed laparoscopically with a tiny incision at the naval and a few “needle points” in the upper abdomen.
For more information about Barrett’s Esophagus, view our Center for GI Health page.
This content is not a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment provided by a qualified healthcare provider. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.